Relora: A Natural Supplement for Weight Loss, Anxiety, Stress and Insomnia

By Rasil Heath

Weight loss, anxiety, stress and insomnia: it’s apparent just by the abundance of television commercials sponsored by drug companies that these health issues are plaguing individuals across the country. But what if there were a chemical-free alternative to those drugs - a combination of natural plant extracts which could help solve all of these health problems? There is a promising new over-the-counter supplement which may be just that natural alternative: an FDA-approved plant blend called Relora.

Relora is a proprietary blend of two plant extracts – Phellodendron amurense and Magnolia officinalis (used by traditional Chinese herbalists for centuries). It was developed to help with relaxation, elevate mood, and to normalize the adrenal hormones related to stress-induced eating. And although it is considered non-sedating, it has been shown to help with insomnia as well. The plant extracts in Relora work in the central nervous system, by binding to stress receptors associated with anxiety. It steers clear of receptors linked to sedation, so it promotes relaxation without causing daytime drowsiness. Relora helps normalize the adrenal hormones DHEA and cortisol – critical to effective stress management.

Stress and Anxiety

There are an estimated 50 million Americans suffering from stress and anxiety. In addition to preventing us from fully enjoying our lives, stress can be the cause of emotional and even physical problems. Clinical studies performed at the Living Longer Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio showed promising results in treating stress with Relora. 345 female subjects followed a two-week regimen in the study, and 89% reported that Relora helped them to relax. Studies carried out at the University of Mississippi found that 78% of subjects reported an increase in relaxation and feelings of well-being. Relora has been shown to help stress-related symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, tense muscles, difficulty concentrating and emotional mood swings.

Weight Loss

Clinical studies were also carried out to determine Relora’s effect on weight loss efforts. After two weeks of supplemental Relora, 78% of the test subjects found that it helped prevent stress-related eating. A subsequent study evaluated the effect of Relora on eating habits of subjects who regularly snacked on sweet or salty foods when they felt stressed. Relora curbed sweet-snacking by 75%, and salty-snacking by 50%. This may be explained by studies which found that a two week regimen of Relora significantly increased DHEA and lowered cortisol in stressed-out test subjects, returning their levels of these hormones to normal. (Studies have shown a clear link between cortisol and weight gain. Excess stress can lead to high levels of cortisol, which in turn stimulates appetite.) Adding a supplemental regimen of Relora to a healthy diet and exercise program could make shedding unwanted pounds much easier.

Insomnia

Another finding of the clinical trials was that Relora seems to improve sleep, while it does not cause daytime drowsiness in most individuals. 74% of test subjects in clinical trials reported more restful sleep.

Safety & Precautions

Studies have shown Relora to be very safe – although it is always best to consult with your physician before beginning any new supplement. (Until specific studies rule out any possible safety issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women, Relora is not recommended for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant.) Relora is gentle on the stomach, and has no known drug interactions – though it is best to avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can intensify or counteract the calming effects of Relora.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for Relora is 750mg total per day, divided into two or three doses. It is best to take Relora with food, as well. The relaxing effects should be felt within a few hours, although some individuals may not feel the effects for a few days. Availability

Relora can be purchased at many natural “health food” markets, as well as many online Internet stores. There are also different blends available, which include a mix of Relora and other medicinal herbs. Shop around to find the best price and the best product for your particular needs.

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